Herbal Supplements for Lowering Blood Pressure: Natural Remedies and Their Effectiveness

03.08.202327.06.2023 by alexxlab

Which herbal supplements can effectively lower blood pressure. How do potassium and magnesium supplements impact hypertension. What are the risks and benefits of using natural remedies for high blood pressure.

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Understanding High Blood Pressure and Its Prevalence

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a widespread health concern affecting nearly half of all adults in the United States, according to the American Heart Association (AHA). This condition significantly increases the risk of heart failure, heart attacks, and strokes, making it a critical issue to address.

Why is hypertension so prevalent? Several factors contribute to its widespread occurrence:

Unhealthy dietary habits, particularly high sodium intake
Lack of regular physical activity
Obesity and overweight
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
Genetic predisposition
Stress and anxiety

Can lifestyle changes alone combat this pervasive health issue? While adopting a healthier lifestyle is crucial, many individuals seek additional support through dietary supplements and natural remedies.

The Role of Potassium in Blood Pressure Regulation

Potassium plays a vital role in managing blood pressure. This essential mineral works in two primary ways to reduce hypertension:

It promotes sodium excretion through urine
It helps relax blood vessel walls

How effective are potassium supplements in lowering blood pressure? A 2017 review of studies indicated that potassium supplements could decrease both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The effects were most pronounced in individuals with:

High-sodium diets
Low potassium intake prior to supplementation
No current use of blood pressure medication

Is it safe for everyone to take potassium supplements? While potassium can be beneficial, it’s important to note that these supplements may be harmful to individuals with kidney disorders. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Potassium-Rich Foods for Natural Blood Pressure Management

For those who prefer to increase their potassium intake through diet, the AHA recommends incorporating the following foods:

Dried apricots
Spinach
Tomatoes
Avocados
Mushrooms
Prunes or prune juice
Fat-free or low-fat yogurt or milk

Magnesium: A Mineral Powerhouse for Cardiovascular Health

Magnesium is another crucial mineral that plays a significant role in regulating blood pressure. This essential nutrient supports various bodily functions, including:

Muscle and nerve function
Immune system health
Protein synthesis

How effective are magnesium supplements in reducing blood pressure? A 2016 review analyzing 34 trials concluded that magnesium supplements can indeed lower blood pressure. The study suggested that taking 300 milligrams (mg) of magnesium daily for one month may sufficiently increase magnesium levels to combat hypertension.

What is the recommended daily intake of magnesium? The Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS) recommends a dietary allowance of 310-420 mg for adults. Beyond its effects on blood pressure, a magnesium-rich diet may also reduce the risk of stroke, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.

Magnesium-Rich Foods to Incorporate into Your Diet

To naturally boost your magnesium intake, consider adding these foods to your meal plan:

Almonds
Spinach
Cashews
Peanuts
Black beans
Avocados
Potatoes
Brown rice
Fat-free or low-fat yogurt

The Impact of Dietary Fiber on Cardiovascular Health

Dietary fiber is not just crucial for digestive health; it also plays a significant role in maintaining heart health. How does fiber contribute to cardiovascular well-being? A diet rich in fiber can help lower:

Cholesterol levels
Blood pressure
Inflammation in the body

What types of fiber are most beneficial for heart health? There are two main types of dietary fiber:

Soluble fiber: Found in oats, beans, lentils, and some fruits, this type of fiber dissolves in water and can help lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
Insoluble fiber: Present in whole grains, vegetables, and nuts, this type of fiber adds bulk to stool and promotes regular bowel movements.

How much fiber should one consume daily? The American Heart Association recommends a total dietary fiber intake of 25 to 30 grams a day from food, not supplements. Currently, most Americans only get about 15 grams a day.

Fiber-Rich Foods to Include in Your Diet

To increase your fiber intake naturally, consider incorporating these foods into your daily meals:

Whole grains (oats, quinoa, brown rice)
Legumes (beans, lentils, peas)
Fruits (apples, pears, berries)
Vegetables (broccoli, carrots, Brussels sprouts)
Nuts and seeds (almonds, chia seeds, flaxseeds)

Herbal Supplements: A Natural Approach to Blood Pressure Management

While lifestyle changes and dietary adjustments are crucial, many individuals turn to herbal supplements as a natural approach to managing blood pressure. Do these supplements truly work, and are they safe?

Research into herbal supplements for blood pressure management has shown mixed results. Some herbs have demonstrated potential benefits, while others lack sufficient scientific evidence to support their use. Here are some herbal supplements that have gained attention for their potential blood pressure-lowering effects:

1. Garlic (Allium sativum)

Garlic has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its potential cardiovascular benefits. How does garlic affect blood pressure? Studies suggest that garlic may help relax blood vessels and reduce the stiffness of arteries, potentially leading to lower blood pressure.

A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Clinical Hypertension found that garlic supplements could reduce systolic blood pressure by an average of 8.3 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure by 5.5 mm Hg in individuals with hypertension.

2. Hawthorn (Crataegus species)

Hawthorn is a plant that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for heart-related conditions. How might hawthorn impact blood pressure? This herb is believed to have vasodilating properties, which means it may help widen blood vessels, potentially reducing blood pressure.

While some studies have shown promising results, more research is needed to fully understand hawthorn’s effects on blood pressure and its long-term safety.

3. Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa)

Hibiscus tea has gained popularity for its potential health benefits, including its effects on blood pressure. What does the research say about hibiscus and hypertension? A review of studies published in the Journal of Hypertension found that consuming hibiscus tea was associated with a significant reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

However, it’s important to note that more large-scale, long-term studies are needed to confirm these findings and establish optimal dosing guidelines.

The Importance of Caution and Professional Guidance

While herbal supplements may seem like a natural and harmless approach to managing blood pressure, it’s crucial to approach their use with caution. Why is professional guidance necessary when considering herbal supplements?

Potential interactions: Herbal supplements can interact with prescription medications, potentially leading to adverse effects or reduced efficacy of your current treatments.
Quality and purity concerns: The supplement industry is not as tightly regulated as pharmaceutical drugs, which can lead to issues with product quality and purity.
Individual variability: What works for one person may not work for another, and some individuals may be more susceptible to side effects.
Proper dosing: Determining the right dosage of herbal supplements can be challenging without professional guidance.

Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications.

Lifestyle Modifications: The Foundation of Blood Pressure Management

While supplements and herbal remedies may offer potential benefits, it’s essential to remember that they should complement, not replace, lifestyle modifications. What are the key lifestyle changes that can help manage blood pressure?

Adopt a heart-healthy diet: The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, has been shown to significantly reduce blood pressure.
Reduce sodium intake: Limiting salt consumption to less than 2,300 mg per day (or even lower for some individuals) can help lower blood pressure.
Engage in regular physical activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week.
Maintain a healthy weight: Losing excess weight can have a significant impact on blood pressure levels.
Limit alcohol consumption: If you drink, do so in moderation â€“ up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.
Manage stress: Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga.
Quit smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases.

By focusing on these lifestyle modifications and working closely with healthcare providers, individuals can create a comprehensive approach to managing their blood pressure that may include appropriate supplements when necessary.

Monitoring and Long-Term Management of Blood Pressure

Effective blood pressure management requires ongoing monitoring and adjustment of treatment strategies. How can individuals ensure they’re effectively managing their blood pressure over time?

Regular check-ups: Schedule routine visits with your healthcare provider to monitor your blood pressure and discuss any changes in your health or treatment plan.
Home blood pressure monitoring: Invest in a reliable home blood pressure monitor and keep a log of your readings to share with your healthcare provider.
Medication adherence: If prescribed blood pressure medications, take them as directed and communicate any side effects or concerns to your healthcare provider.
Ongoing education: Stay informed about the latest research and recommendations for blood pressure management through reputable sources.

Remember that managing blood pressure is a long-term commitment that may require adjustments to your treatment plan over time. By staying proactive and working closely with healthcare professionals, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of complications associated with hypertension and improve their overall cardiovascular health.

Which supplements can lower blood pressure?

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14 Supplements That May Help Lower Blood Pressure

Magnesium, vitamin D, and potassium are just a few of the many supplements that may help lower high blood pressure.

Over 30% of the world’s population has high blood pressure, which is considered the leading modifiable risk factor for heart disease and early death (1).

Still, numerous strategies can help you reduce blood pressure, such as following a healthy diet, quitting smoking, cutting back on alcohol, exercising, and losing excess body fat (2).

What’s more, certain supplements have been shown to help reduce high blood pressure.

Here are 14 supplements that may help lower your blood pressure.

Magnesium is a mineral that’s critical for many bodily functions, including blood pressure regulation (3).

Studies show that magnesium supplements may help reduce blood pressure by increasing the production of nitric oxide — a signaling molecule that helps relax blood vessels (4).

A review of 11 randomized studies found that magnesium, taken at 365–450 mg per day over an average of 3.6 months, significantly reduced blood pressure in people with chronic medical conditions (5).

Another review of 10 studies in over 200,000 people suggested that greater dietary intake of magnesium may protect against high blood pressure in the first place. Every 100-mg daily increase in dietary magnesium was linked to a 5% reduction in high blood pressure risk (6).

Research shows that people with high blood pressure tend to have lower levels of vitamin D than those without this condition (7, 8).

Studies also demonstrate that higher blood levels of vitamin D may help protect against high blood pressure.

A review of data in over 300,00 people found that those with the highest vitamin D levels had up to a 30% reduced risk of high blood pressure, compared with those with the lowest levels (9, 10).

Thus, people with high blood pressure should get their vitamin D levels checked and supplement accordingly.

Supplements 101: Vitamin D

Several B vitamins may help reduce blood pressure levels.

For example, vitamin B2 (riboflavin) supplements have been shown to help reduce blood pressure in adults with methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene mutations, which make high blood pressure more likely (11, 12, 13).

Folic acid and folate supplements — vitamin B9 — may also lower blood pressure in people with heart disease. Additionally, higher folate intake in young adulthood may protect against this condition later in life (14, 15).

While animal studies suggest that vitamin B6 supplements likewise reduce high blood pressure, human research is lacking (16).

Potassium may be the best known nutritional supplement for blood pressure regulation. Studies suggest that increasing your intake through food or supplements helps reduce high blood pressure levels (17, 18, 19, 20).

Potassium works by promoting sodium excretion through the urine and helping blood vessels relax.

In a review of 23 studies, potassium supplements led to a modest but significant drop in blood pressure, compared with a placebo (18).

Other reviews note that these supplements are safe and effective, though they appear most effective in people with high blood pressure who follow high sodium diets (19, 21).

Coenzyme Q10 — commonly called CoQ10 — is a vitamin-like molecule that’s made by your body and found in certain foods (22).

When taken as a supplement, it may help reduce blood pressure.

A review of 17 studies found that CoQ10 supplements significantly reduced systolic blood pressure, which is the top number on a reading (23).

However, results from other studies are mixed. Thus, more research is needed (24).

L-arginine is an amino acid that may lower blood pressure levels when taken as a supplement.

An umbrella review of 7 meta-analyses in 4,676 people demonstrated that L-arginine supplements significantly reduced total blood pressure in people with high levels, as well as diastolic blood pressure in pregnant women with high levels (25).

Furthermore, the review found that L-arginine supplements significantly improved blood vessel function and blood flow (25).

Vitamin C is a water-soluble nutrient that your body needs for many important processes. Although study results are mixed, recent research suggests that vitamin C supplements may help lower blood pressure.

In a review of 8 studies in people with high blood pressure, taking 300–1,000 mg per day of vitamin C significantly reduced their levels (26).

Research also suggests that people with low blood levels of this vitamin have a higher risk of high blood pressure than those with optimal vitamin C levels (27).

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Athletes often take beetroot supplements to bolster exercise performance because this root vegetable improves blood flow and oxygen delivery to your muscles (28).

Interestingly, beetroot supplements have been shown to reduce blood pressure in people with and without high blood pressure (28, 29).

For example, a review of 11 studies revealed that beetroot juice lowered blood pressure levels in people with and without this condition (30).

Garlic is linked to a variety of benefits, including reduced blood pressure and heart disease risk (31).

Adding a garlic supplement to your routine may help lower your blood pressure naturally. In fact, in a review of 12 studies, garlic supplements reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure by an average of 8.3 mmHg and 5.5 mmHg, respectively (32).

The researchers estimated that this reduction may help decrease your risk of stroke, heart attack, and coronary artery disease by up to 40% (32).

Fish oil may improve heart health by reducing blood lipid levels, inflammation, and high blood pressure. Studies show that those with high blood pressure may benefit from high-dose fish oil supplements (33).

In one review, taking the omega-3 fats EPA and DHA, including fish oil supplements, led to significant 4.51 and 3. 05 mmHg reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, respectively, in people with high blood pressure who weren’t on medications (34).

What’s more, research notes higher blood levels of omega-3s may protect against high blood pressure (35).

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria naturally found in your gut. Supplements containing these bacteria are linked to numerous health benefits, including lower blood pressure.

In a review of nine studies, probiotic supplements significantly reduced blood pressure levels, compared with control groups (36).

However, the researchers noted that treatment was more effective when multiple strains of probiotics were taken, the supplements were taken for 8 weeks or longer, and the daily dose was greater than 10 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) (36).

Notably, another review found that probiotic supplements significantly reduced blood pressure in people with high levels, compared with control groups (37).

Melatonin is a hormone made by your body that you can also take as a supplement. Although these supplements are popularly used to promote sleep, they’re associated with other health benefits as well.

For example, studies show that melatonin supplements may reduce blood pressure in people with high levels.

A review of 5 studies linked melatonin supplements to significant reductions in blood pressure levels, compared with control groups (38).

Another study suggested that low melatonin production may be a risk factor for high blood pressure in women (39).

Green tea is associated with a variety of impressive health benefits, including healthy blood pressure levels (40).

A review of 24 studies showed that taking green tea supplements or drinking green tea for 3–16 weeks significantly reduced blood pressure in people with and without high levels (41).

Although these results are promising, larger, long-term studies are necessary.

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Research suggests that high-dose ginger supplements may help lower high blood pressure.

A review of 6 studies found that, when taken in doses of 3 grams or more per day for 8 weeks or fewer, ginger supplements significantly reduced blood pressure in people 50 years old and younger (42).

In a 12-week study in 37 people with metabolic syndrome — a group of conditions that raise heart disease risk — taking 2 grams of ginger powder per day significantly lowered levels of blood pressure, triglycerides, and fasting blood sugar, compared with a placebo (43).

While several supplements may lower blood pressure levels, it doesn’t mean that every supplement is safe.

It’s important to know that many supplements may interact with common drugs, including blood pressure medication (44, 45).

What’s more, while taking too little of a supplement may be ineffective for reducing blood pressure, taking too much may result in serious side effects.

Thus, you should always consult your healthcare provider before adding any supplement to your routine. Your healthcare provider can help you determine a safe and effective dose based on your needs.

Additionally, it’s important to choose a high quality brand. When possible, purchase supplements that have undergone third-party testing for purity by organizations like United States Pharmacopeia (USP) or NSF International.

Useful supplement shopping guides

Check out these two articles to help make supplement shopping a breeze:

How to Choose High Quality Vitamins and Supplements
How to Read Supplement Labels Like a Pro

Was this helpful?

If you have questions about how to choose a high quality supplement, ask a qualified healthcare provider like a registered dietitian for advice.

Summary
Before taking any supplement, talk with your healthcare provider to ensure that it’s safe and effective for its intended use.

Research shows that some supplements may help lower blood pressure. These include magnesium, potassium, vitamin D, CoQ10, garlic, and fish oil.

While adding one or more of these supplements may be advantageous, you should first talk with your healthcare provider to ensure that the supplement is necessary, safe, and effective.

Five Heart Health & Blood Pressure Supplements｜ iHerb Blog

The information in this blog has not been verified by your country’s public health authority and is not intended as a diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice.
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‌‌‌‌What is hypertension?

The heart pumps blood around the body through the blood vessels using pressure drops. Liquids such as water typically flow from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure. This principle also applies in the body: the pressure in the vessels through which blood flows from the heart (arteries) is higher than in the vessels through which blood flows to the heart (veins). Hypertension, or high blood pressure, occurs when the pressure in the arteries is higher than normal. Narrow blood vessels create more resistance to high pressure. The heart is constantly working with an increased load to overcome the opposing high pressure when pumping blood. Hypertension can develop over many years. Usually, you won’t notice any symptoms. That is why hypertension is called the silent killer.

Complications of hypertension

Hypertension is the leading cause of death and disability worldwide. In particular, they lead to strokes, heart failure, chronic kidney disease and death from cardiovascular disease. Family history and lifestyle may contribute to the onset of hypertension. In particular, hypertension is caused by high salt intake, obesity, excessive consumption of alcohol and drugs such as ibuprofen, stimulants and decongestants, and even the use of illicit drugs. Diseases that affect other organs, such as the kidneys, adrenals, and thyroid, can also lead to hypertension.

‌‌5 food supplements to lower blood pressure

Prevention of hypertension is extremely important. Many people live with undiagnosed hypertension for many years because symptoms often don’t show up until it’s too late. A healthy diet and supplements such as folic acid, vitamin D, magnesium, CoQ10 , and fiber can help reduce high blood pressure. Read more about these five dietary supplements to lower high blood pressure below.

1. Folic acid

Folic acid is a synthetic form of folate, a type of B vitamin that helps the body make new cells. Low folic acid levels can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, as well as hypertension. Several studies have shown that folic acid may help lower high blood pressure. It causes the walls of the arteries to relax, thereby reducing pressure. Folic acid supplementation reduced high blood pressure by about 3% over many years of research. This is enough to counteract the negative effects of hypertension. Folic acid is found in many fruits, vegetables and grains. However, the average person gets only 100-150 micrograms of folic acid per day. Therefore, in order to achieve the recommended daily dose of 400 mcg, it is necessary to take an appropriate dietary supplement.

2. Vitamin D

The body produces vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. This vitamin promotes the absorption of calcium in the intestines and strengthens the immune system. Many people living in cold climates have low levels of vitamin D due to lack of sunlight. Working indoors for most of the day can also contribute to vitamin D deficiency, which helps regulate blood pressure. This vitamin plays an important role in the production of hormones by the kidneys that help regulate the amount of salt stored in the body. Observation reports note that high blood pressure is more common during the cold winter months. This suggests that reduced vitamin D levels may contribute to high blood pressure. Genetically modified mouse models have shown that vitamin D maintained healthy blood pressure levels when mice were unable to produce the vitamin themselves. Unfortunately, the results of numerous human studies on the properties of vitamin D in preventing hypertension have been mixed. These studies require more time and control over many other variables, which is difficult to achieve in human studies. If you work primarily indoors or live in areas with seasonal changes in sunlight intensity, consider taking vitamin D supplements. The recommended daily intake of vitamin D for a healthy adult is 1,000 IU.

3. Magnesium

Magnesium can also help relax the arteries, resulting in lower blood pressure. However, it works differently than garlic and folic acid. Approximately 500–1000 mg of magnesium can lower blood pressure by 2–5 mmHg. Combining magnesium with high-potassium, low-sodium foods may increase the effectiveness of lowering blood pressure compared to magnesium supplements alone. Magnesium is offered in a variety of supplements, with taurine supplementation being the most effective at supporting healthy blood pressure levels. On the labels, this drug is called magnesium taurate. This drug allows you to increase the absorption of magnesium and reduces the side effects from the gastrointestinal tract, noted with other formulations with magnesium. The most common drug is magnesium citrate. But one of the side effects of magnesium citrate is gastrointestinal discomfort, as it also acts as an anti-constipation agent. Magnesium glycinate is a drug with an amino acid (glycine). It is found in many nutritional supplements as it improves sleep and helps fight anxiety, stress, and depression.

4. Fiber

People in developed countries consume only about half of the recommended daily intake of 25–30 g of dietary fiber. A meta-analysis has shown that fiber intake can prevent hypertension. However, extensive research is still needed on how fiber can lower high blood pressure. The use of dietary fiber in large volumes helps to reduce the glycemic index of foods, controls the insulin response to foods with a high glycemic index. All of these can play a role in regulating blood pressure. More importantly, fiber can aid in the absorption of minerals such as magnesium and vitamins such as vitamin D and folic acid. In addition, dietary fiber may help protect the heart by lowering cholesterol levels. Each gram of dietary fiber consumed reduces low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels by 2 mg, i.e. “bad” cholesterol. More importantly, eating large amounts of dietary fiber reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

5. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant present in the mitochondria (the “powerhouses” of the cell). It helps convert food into energy and is also involved in the fight against free radicals. The body can produce it on its own. In addition, it can also be obtained from food. Coenzyme Q10 is found in a variety of foods including meat, fish and nuts .

Deficiency of this enzyme is associated with various disorders of the heart, nervous system and metabolism, as well as high blood pressure. It is possible that CoQ10 helps to relax blood vessels and thus maintain normal blood pressure. This is especially important when taking CoQ10 supplements in conjunction with a healthy diet.

A recent Cochrane review noted conflicting results with coenzyme Q10 supplements alone for blood pressure reduction. More randomized controlled trials are needed to determine if the reduction in blood pressure is caused by taking coenzyme Q10 in combination with a healthy diet or other factors.

The recommended dosage of CoQ10 is 30 to 200 mg per day. Many CoQ10 supplements come in softgels, a form that is thought to be better absorbed by the body.

Remember, high blood pressure usually has no symptoms. It can be prevented by combining a healthy diet with supplementation. Maintaining a healthy weight also helps maintain healthy blood pressure. Getting enough physical activity is a great way to avoid weight gain, reduce stress levels, and prevent high blood pressure.

Regular medical check-ups are another way to prevent high blood pressure. If you’re thinking about starting any supplements, check with your doctor first and introduce them individually into your diet.

Sources:

Corliss J. Folic acid, a B vitamin, lowers stroke risk in people with high blood pressure. Harvard Health Blog. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/folic-acid-a-b-vitamin-lowers-stroke-risk-in-people-with-high-blood-pressure-201503187810. Published June 24, 2020. Accessed January 24, 2021.
Forman JP, Bischoff-Ferrari HA, Willett WC, Stampfer MJ, Curhan GC. Vitamin D Intake and Risk of Incident Hypertension. hypertension. 2005;46(4):676-682. doi:10.1161/01.hyp.0000182662.82666.37
McRae MP. High-dose folic acid supplementation effects on endothelial function and blood pressure in hypertensive patients: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials. J Chiropr Med. 2009;8(1):15-24. doi:10.1016/j.jcm.2008.09.001
Ried K. Garlic lowers blood pressure in hypertensive subjects, improves arterial stiffness and gut microbiota: A review and meta-analysis. Exp Ther Med. 2020;19(2):1472-1478. doi:10.3892/etm.2019.8374
Streppel MT. Dietary Fiber and Blood Pressure. Archives of Internal Medicine. 2005;165(2):150. doi:10.1001/archinte.165.2.150
Terrie YC. The Important Role of Vitamin D. Pharmacy Times. https://www.pharmacytimes.com/publications/issue/2010/February2010/OTCFocusVitaminD-0210. Published February 15, 2010. Accessed January 24, 2021.
Taler SJ. Initial Treatment of Hypertension. New England Journal of Medicine. 2018;378(7):636-644. doi:10.1056/nejmcp1613481
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Medicines and dietary supplements that can increase blood pressure

May 11, 2020

From painkillers to stimulants, prescription and non-prescription, including those affecting drugs, designed to lower blood pressure. Find out which medications and herbal supplements can increase your chances of developing hypertension.

Pain medications

Some pain medications and anti-inflammatory medications can cause water retention in the body, causing kidney problems and high blood pressure.
These include: indomethacin (Indocin), acetaminophen (Tylenol and other paracetamol-based drugs), aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen sodium (Anaprox), piroxicam, and other similar drugs.

Antidepressants

Antidepressants work by changing the level of biologically active chemicals (neurotransmitters), including serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine, which affect mood. In a person with depression, such drugs reduce the level of apathy, anxiety, anxiety and irritability, and help to think positively. However, the chemicals in some antidepressants can raise blood pressure.
These drugs include: venlafaxine (Effexor, Vipax, Efevelon), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs, belong to the first generation of antidepressants), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), fluoxetine.

Contraceptives

Birth control pills, patches, and vaginal rings usually come with a warning about the side effect of high blood pressure (due to hormones and constriction of small blood vessels). Not all women are at risk, but if you’re worried, check your blood pressure regularly – once every six months or once a year. The risk is higher in women over 35 years of age, in women who are overweight, and in smokers.

Decongestants

Decongestants are decongestants that reduce swelling of mucous membranes by constricting blood vessels. They are used as anti-cold and anti-allergic drugs. If you have high blood pressure, these drugs are best avoided due to the possible disruption of blood flow. It is important to know that decongestants can reduce the effectiveness of hypertension medications.
These include: pseudoephedrine (Sudafed, Sudogest), phenylephrine (Neosynephritis).

Herbal supplements (dietary supplements)

Active ingredients in herbal supplements may increase blood pressure or interact with hypertension medications.
These include: arnica, bitter orange (orange), ephedra, ginseng, guarana, licorice, St. John’s wort.

Biologicals

One of the side effects of some biological therapies is also an increase in blood pressure.
These include angiogenesis inhibitors and certain monoclonal antibodies: bevacizumab (Avastin, Mvasi), gefitinib (Iressa), imatinib (Gleevec), pazopanib (Votrient), ramucirumab (Kyramza).

Immunosuppressants (immunosuppressants)

These drugs are indicated in almost all transplant patients. Some of the immunosuppressants can increase blood pressure, possibly due to effects on the kidneys.
These include: cyclosporine (Sandimmun Neoral, Jengraf), tacrolimus (Prograf, Envarsus).

Stimulants

Psychostimulants like the dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) can affect heart rate by increasing blood pressure.

Illicit drugs and drugs can also affect blood pressure. These include: amphetamines (including methamphetamine), anabolic steroids, cocaine.

Check your blood pressure regularly while taking the above medicines. If the levels increase or are uncontrollable, ask your doctor to review your treatment regimen and change your current drug, as well as recommend lifestyle changes.